‘America’s best beach’ is located in New York, just a short, scenic train ride from Manhattan — famous for its white sand, crystal-clear water, and Gilded Age mansions

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Sydney Hargrove

 –  Junior Staff Writer

 ·  May 30, 2026

New York’s Best-Kept Secret For A Summer Drive: This Idyllic Waterfront Route Is Home To 60+ Vineyards And One Of NY’s Most Iconic Lighthouses

Forget the Hamptons: this scenic route on Long Island is one of the best for a summer escape — with dramatic cliffs, hidden castles, & seaside sunset views

We did it, New York! We’ve finally made it out of winter’s cruel grasp, and now it’s time to trade piles of white snow for miles of white sand!

If you’re looking for the perfect beach day, New York has endless options. Whether you’re on the hunt for a quick borough escape, a nostalgic boardwalk afternoon, a quiet hidden shoreline, or a full-on coastal getaway, there’s a beach for every kind of summer mood. From the lively crowds of Coney Island to the windswept dunes of Montauk, you can stay close to home or turn the journey itself into part of the adventure.

And for the day-trippers willing to hop on the LIRR, many consider New York’s most beautiful beach to be waiting at the end of the ride.

Tucked along the South Fork of Long Island, Coopers Beach in Southampton has earned national praise for its wide sandy shoreline, rolling dunes, and postcard-worthy Atlantic views, and was even ranked as 2025’s best beach in America. It’s the kind of beach that makes you forget, at least temporarily, that your usual soundtrack is sirens and subway brakes.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your escape to this local coastal paradise.

The Scenery: White Sands and Gilded Mansions

What sets Coopers Beach apart from your average stretch of New York coastline is its striking dual-aspect scenery.

Facing south, you’re treated to an uninterrupted view of the vast Atlantic Ocean, framed by soft, powdery white sand and dramatic, grass-covered dunes that feel worlds away from the city. The shoreline is impressively wide, meaning that even during peak summer weekends, you can usually still carve out your own little pocket of peace.

Turn around, however, and the scenery shifts completely.

Lining the horizon are the legendary mansions of Meadow Lane, one of the most exclusive waterfront stretches in the country. Often nicknamed “Billionaire’s Lane,” the road is home to sprawling oceanfront estates, towering hedges, and architectural showpieces that add an unmistakable touch of Hamptons glamor to the beach experience.

What to Do Nearby in Southampton

If you get restless just lying on a towel, the village of Southampton offers plenty of charm just a short distance from the sand.

• Stroll Down Main Street: Downtown Southampton is filled with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and historic buildings. It’s the perfect spot for window shopping and people-watching.
• Grab a Bite: For a casual lunch, head to the iconic Sip ‘n Soda, a retro 1950s luncheonette famous for its homemade ice cream and lime rickeys. If you want something upscale, book a table at 75 Main for great people-watching and Italian-American fare.
• Soak Up Some Culture: Visit the Parrish Art Museum in nearby Water Mill to see an incredible collection of works by local artists (including Willem de Kooning and Jackson Pollock) housed in a stunning, minimalist building designed by Herzog & de Meuron.

What to Know Before You Go

Before you pack your umbrella, there are a few logistical realities to keep in mind. Coopers Beach is stunning, but it is located in the heart of the Hamptons, which means access comes with a premium.

• Admission & Parking: If you are driving, a daily parking permit is steep—expect to pay around $50 per vehicle per day. These passes can sell out quickly on peak summer weekends, so arriving early is essential.
• Amenities: This is a full-service beach. You will find clean restrooms, freshwater showers, and a concession stand serving up summer staples like lobster rolls, burgers, and ice cream.
• Rentals: Don’t want to drag your gear on the train? You can rent chairs and umbrellas directly on the sand. Lifeguards are also on duty throughout the summer season.

How to Get There from NYC

You don’t need a car to experience Coopers Beach. In fact, skipping the gridlock on Route 27 is highly recommended.

• By Car: If you choose to drive, take the Long Island Expressway (I-495) East to Exit 70, then follow Route 111 South to Route 27 East (Sunrise Highway) into Southampton. Without traffic, it takes about 2 hours—but on a Friday afternoon in July, expect that time to easily double.
• By Train (LIRR): Take the Montauk Branch of the Long Island Rail Road from Penn Station or Grand Central Madison directly to the Southampton station. The ride takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. From the station, Coopers Beach is a quick 2-mile Uber, Lyft, or local taxi ride away. If you’re feeling active, you can easily bring a bike on the train and ride to the shore.
• By Bus (The Hampton Jitney): Hop on the Hampton Jitney or the Ambassador luxury bus from various pickup locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. It will drop you off right in the center of Southampton Village, where you can grab a local cab to the beach.